Now that modern technology has given us the opportunity to travel to far-flung places around the globe, we also have the chance to contract some really interesting diseases into the bargain. Knowing what jabs to have and what health precautions to take is obviously important. Luckily, there are a few excellent advice sites around to keep us healthy while on holiday.
Fit For Travel (www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk/): Compiled and updated by a team of experts from the Travel Medicine Division at the Scottish Centre for Infection and Environmental Health, the site includes maps showing regions where malaria is common, for example, as well as a country-by-country breakdown of health information.
Department of Health (www.doh.gov.uk/traveladvice/): As you would expect, there is lots of useful advice here on required immunisations, recommended diet, and how to fill in the Form E111 to ensure free access to healthcare in an emergency in countries that are part of the European Union. You don't always need an E111, so check this site first. You can pick up the form from any local post office.
The Foreign Office (www.fco.gov.uk/): For general advice on places to avoid altogether - unless you have a yen for kidnapping and civil war as part of your rest and relaxation plans - the newly revamped Foreign & Commonwealth Office site is definitely worth a look. As well as the usual country-specific advice, there's information about British Consular services abroad and how you can get hold of English-speaking lawyers should you find yourself in a Turkish clink after a particularly energetic night out. Flippancy aside, this site could save your life.
The Association of British Insurers (www.abi.org.uk): Compiled and updated by a team of experts from the Travel Medicine Division at the Scottish Centre for Infection and Environmental Health, the site includes maps showing regions where malaria is common, for example, as well as a country-by-country breakdown of health information.
